13 murders in Little Rock in 2013, 5 this week alone | News

Title (Max 100 Characters)

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) -- It's been a busy week for Little Rock homicide detectives, and their work is just beginning. Five murders in just a few days isn't the norm for the department, but they assure the public it's not a lasting trend.

The rash of killings began on May 6 with a double-murder at a home on West 33rd St. Bobby Broadway Jr. and Natasha Avery were found shot to death after a friend went to check on them.

Dewana Phillips with the Little Rock Police Department said the recent spike in crime is out of the ordinary.

"It's a bit much. I mean, that number is a bit much for us as a department, but there's not anything in particular that ties them together."

The spree continued on Friday when Forrest Abrams,18, of Fayetteville, was found dead in the street at 11th Street and Woodrow Street. Police believe Abrams was killed after he and an acquaintance were abducted at gunpoint from a nearby gas station. Police have made no arrest, but Phillips said they do have a photo of the suspect.

The violence continued into the weekend.

On Saturday, Arista Aldridge was fatally shot near 6th and Ferry Streets during a confrontation that started as road rage. Chris Schnarr of North Little Rock, is being held on a first-degree murder charge in that case. Schnarr told investigators he shot Aldridge out of fear for his life, police said.

Phillips said in light of the recent killings, the department is making their presence known.

"Our officers are still actively patrolling the neighborhoods and doing what they do in reference to suspicious people, and things that just don't fit to try to make sure we're secure and safe in this city."

Little Rock has seen 13 murders so far this year. Six of those are still unsolved.